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Brumbies name team to face the Chiefs

Robbie Coleman returns to the Brumbies starting side on Saturday night when his team takes on the Chiefs in their Super Rugby Qualifier at GIO Stadium.

Coleman’s elevation to the starting side shifts Clyde Rathbone out of the match-day 23, with rookie prop Allan Alaalatoa’s inclusion on the bench the only other change to last week’s match-day 23.

With seven tries to his name in 2014, Coleman leads the Brumbies try-scoring tally alongside his fellow-back-three member, Jesse Mogg. It’s been a big season for the UC Brumbies outside backs, with Henry Speight, Joe Tomane, Pat McCabe, Mogg and Coleman combining for a total 22 five-pointers.

Coleman was instrumental in guiding the UC Brumbies to victory over the Chiefs in their first encounter of 2014, making more tackles than any of his backline colleagues other than centre pairing of Tevita Kuridrani and Christian Lealiifano.

“It was tough watching the boys play so well last week and not being a part of it,” Coleman said.

“I thought they were outstanding in pretty much everything they did. I’ll be looking to build on that momentum this week. I want to be able to add to that performance.

“The last few weeks I’ve had some issues with my quad and as a result my speed probably hasn’t been where it needs to be. That’s all resolved now though and I’m looking forward to taking on the Chiefs.”

Alaalatoa’s debut inclusion comes at the expense of JP Smith. Alaalatoa was a star member of the Australian Under 20’s at the most recent Junior World Cup in New Zealand and follows the debut of his brother Michael who made his first appearance for the Waratahs last weekend.